Agencies plan significant hazard reduction burn at Hat Head National Park

NPWS Hastings Macleay area manager Shane Robinson said the purpose of the burn is to protect homes in the Arakoon community and tackle a lantana infestation in Hat Head National Park.

"NPWS has planned the 378-hectare burn to reduce fuel loads in the park east of Arakoon," Mr Robinson said.

"We're aiming to conduct the burn under specific wind conditions that will direct smoke away from the Arakoon community, however smoke may still be visible residents.

"If you're sensitive to smoke, try to stay indoors and keep your doors and windows closed to reduce exposure.

"We also recommend that you remove any washing from outdoor clotheslines and ensure your pets have a protected area.

"Gap Beach Rd and access to Gap Beach South Arakoon will be closed for the duration of burn, as will be the walking track from Gap Beach to Smoky Cape Lighthouse.

"We anticipate that the burn will take approximately two days, followed by up to a week of mop-up activities and patrol to ensure the safety of the local community."

The hazard reduction burn will also help to reduce the presence of weeds, such as lantana, and protect the dry sclerophyll (eucalypt) woodland, littoral rainforest and themeda grassland communities that are found in Hat Head National Park.

All burns across NSW will continue to be coordinated with the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) to ensure the impact on the community, including from smoke, are assessed at a regional level.

Details on specific burns will be made available in advance on the Rural Fire Service website, 'Fires Near Me' app, and on the NPWS Alerts website.

For health information relating to smoke from bush fires and hazard reduction burning, visit NSW Health or the Asthma Foundation.

For up to date information on these, and other, planned hazard reduction activities, visit the Rural Fire Service website: https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/

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